Apple Valley, CA Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)

Apple Valley adopted its own ADU/JADU standards in Development Code Section 9.29.120, most recently replaced by Ordinance No. 530 (adopted 2020) to comply with SB 13, AB 68 and AB 881, which amended California Government Code sections 65852.2 and 65852.22. The Town reviews ADU applications ministerially and must approve or deny within 60 days of a complete application. A single-family lot may add one ADU plus one JADU located within the primary residence. Attached ADUs are capped at 50% of the primary dwelling's habitable floor area or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is greater. Detached ADUs are limited to 50% of the primary structure's footprint or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is greater, and on lots under 2.5 acres must generally be located to the rear of the primary dwelling. JADUs must be 220 to 500 sq ft, contained within an existing or proposed single-family structure, with their own exterior entrance and an efficiency kitchen. No parking is required for any ADU, and demolished garage/carport spaces need not be replaced. Owner-occupancy is not required for ADUs permitted between January 1, 2020 and January 1, 2025, but JADUs always require owner-occupancy. ADUs and JADUs may be rented (minimum 30-day term) but not sold separately from the primary residence.